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Jessica Bridge of Ladbrokes said: "It's a very sad situation Meghan now finds herself in just a few days before her wedding, regardless of which family she is marrying into.

“It now looks like history will be made with Doria walking her daughter down the aisle."

Before the official announcement from Kensington Palace, it had previously been suggested Ms Ragland could walk Meghan down the aisle in place of her father, who was said to have been terrified of the pressure.

Then on May 6, Prince Harry’s communications secretary confirmed both Meghan’s parents would play a very special part in the wedding.

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Royal wedding: Meghan Markle could choose to have her mother Doria Ragland walk her down the aisle

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Royal wedding: Meghan's father Thomas Markle Snr has reportedly said he is now not going

He said: “On the morning of the wedding, Ms Ragland will travel with Ms Markle by car to Windsor Castle. Mr Markle will walk his daughter down the aisle of St George's Chapel.

“Ms Markle is delighted to have her parents by her side on this important and happy occasion.”

Royal expert, Caroline Castigliano, believes Meghan may have initially chosen her father out respect of tradition and the Queen.

Ms Castigliano told Marie Claire: "I think Harry would want to do what his grandmother sees as appropriate as a sign of respect to her.

Harry and Meghan: A royal love story in pictures

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s love story in pictures.

"They just wouldn't have her mother walk her down the aisle because it wouldn't be what made the Queen feel comfortable, especially at her age.

"There's going to be all sorts of opportunities for Harry to break with tradition and get things to move in a slightly different direction, but at this point, I'm sure his respect for the Queen is the most important thing."

Following the paparazzi scandal around Mr Markle, Kensington Palace said last night in a statement: “This is a deeply personal moment for Ms Markle in the days before her wedding.

"She and Prince Harry ask again for understanding and respect to be extended to Mr Markle in this difficult situation."